Who doesn’t love the smell of fresh cinnamon rolls wafting through the house? This cinnamon roll recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. Imagine biting into a warm, gooey cinnamon roll topped with sweet icing. It’s a treat that’s worth making every week! Whether you’re starting your mornings or hosting a weekend brunch, these cinnamon rolls will definitely impress.
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making these delightful cinnamon rolls. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk, warmed (not hot)
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup butter, softened (for filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to create your cinnamon rolls! Follow these simple steps:
- Activate the yeast: In a bowl, combine warm milk and the packet of active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it’s frothy.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, and eggs. Mix well until everything is blended.
- Combine the mixtures: Add the frothy yeast mixture to the butter and sugar mixture. Stir gently until combined.
- Add flour and salt: Gradually add flour and salt to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. You can use a wooden spoon or your hands!
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Roll out the dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
- Spread the filling: Spread the softened butter over the rolled-out dough and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top.
- Form the rolls: Starting from one edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the edges to seal.
- Cut the rolls: Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Second rise: Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Bake the rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Make the icing: While the rolls are baking, mix powdered sugar and milk in a bowl until smooth.
- Glaze the rolls: Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the icing over the warm rolls.
Tips for Better Results
To ensure your cinnamon rolls turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Check your yeast: Always make sure your yeast is fresh. If it doesn’t foam when mixed with warm milk, it’s best to get a new packet.
- Don’t rush the rising: Allow enough time for the dough to rise. This is key to fluffy rolls!
- Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for a smoother dough.
- Experiment with filling: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruit for extra flavor in the filling.
Variations (Optional Add-ons)
Want to switch things up? Here are some fun variations for your cinnamon rolls:
- Pecan Cinnamon Rolls: Add chopped pecans to the filling for a crunchy texture.
- Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Rolls: Sprinkle chocolate chips on the filling for a sweet twist.
- Apple Cinnamon Rolls: Add thinly sliced apples mixed with cinnamon and sugar in the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Once your cinnamon rolls are ready, it’s all about presentation! Here are a few ideas:
- Serve them warm on a large plate, drizzled with icing.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast.
- Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Conclusion
With this cinnamon roll recipe, you’ll have a sweet treat that’s easy to whip up and perfect for any occasion. The warm, gooey rolls will surely become a family favorite. So why not give it a try this weekend? Your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll have a delicious snack to enjoy. Happy baking!